Manchester City are not expected to lure Nicolo Barella in the January transfer window, as Inter Milan’s stance could prove too vital.
According to Inter Live, Manchester City will fail to pursue Nicolo Barella in the January transfer window, as Inter Milan have no plans to part ways with the midfielder. Pep Guardiola is keen to sign a midfielder in place of the injured Rodri ahead of the winter window.
Manchester City looking for a midfielder
Manchester City suffered a major setback at the start of the season when they lost key midfielder Rodri for the duration of the campaign with a knee injury. The Spaniard has been an influential figure and key to the way Pep Guardiola likes to play, meaning the club could prioritise a replacement in the January transfer window.
Manchester City should consider approaching quite a few targets in January. Inter Milan’s Hakan Calhanoglu emerged as a target, although the Nerazzurri are unlikely to sanction a sale for the Turkish international midway through the season.
Guardiola is also keen on Bruno Guimaraes. However, like some of their targets, the Brazilian will not be achievable in January as Newcastle United will flat-out refuse to entertain the prospect. Atalanta’s Ederson recently emerged as a target to replace Rodri, and he could be someone that Guardiola could achieve.
Fellow Serie A star Samuele Ricci is also a target, but beyond everyone else, there is Nicolo Barella, who is considered Guardiola’s primary objective. Inter Milan will demand a considerable price to sell their prized asset. Still, the 27-year-old Italian international will be a difficult player to get for Manchester City or any other side, especially midway through the season.
No Manchester City move for Nicolo Barella
Barella only signed a new deal until 2029 in June this year, as the contract signifies his importance in this Inter Milan side. Hence, even if Manchester City knock in with an offer, Inter Milan are set to reject any overtures for the 27-year-old Italian international.
Moreover, Barella is not considering leaving Inter Milan or Italy anytime soon, meaning Manchester City must look at other targets. There should be a player that suits what Guardiola wants from this new midfielder and is available in the market in January. While Barella cannot be achieved, Manchester City must find an alternative solution as they cannot go the entire season with a gap in midfield where Rodri played.
